The Vauxhall B 18 XER is a 1,796 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2005 and 2012. It features double overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and variable valve timing (VVT) on the intake camshaft. In standard tune it delivers 92–103 kW (125–140 PS) and 170–175 Nm of torque, offering responsive performance with good fuel economy for its class.
Fitted to models such as the Astra H, Zafira B, and Corsa D, the B 18 XER was engineered for everyday drivability with a focus on refinement and emissions compliance. Emissions control was achieved through electronic throttle management, sequential fuel injection, and a three-way catalytic converter, allowing compliance with Euro 4 standards across its production run.
One documented concern is timing chain tensioner wear, which in high-mileage examples can lead to chain rattle or misalignment. This issue, referenced in Vauxhall Service Bulletin SB/08/23, stems from early-design plastic tensioner components prone to fatigue. From 2009 onward, revised tensioner materials were introduced to improve durability under extended service intervals.
Production years 2005–2012 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Vauxhall B 18 XER is a 1,796 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and MPVs (2005–2012). It combines DOHC architecture with variable valve timing to deliver smooth power delivery and improved low-end responsiveness. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances urban efficiency with motorway capability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,796 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 80.5 mm × 88.2 mm | |
| Power output | 92–103 kW (125–140 PS) @ 6,000–6,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 170–175 Nm @ 3,800–4,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (Bosch ME7.9.7) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled, electric fan-assisted | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC with hydraulic tensioner | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-30 (ACEA A3/B4 or GM-LL-A-025) | |
| Dry weight | 125 kg |
The DOHC layout with VVT provides smooth power delivery but requires consistent oil quality to maintain hydraulic tensioner function and cam phaser operation. Use of ACEA A3/B4 or GM-LL-A-025 5W-30 oil is critical—lower-spec oils accelerate timing chain wear. The Bosch ME7.9.7 ECU is sensitive to fuel quality; ethanol blends above E10 may cause long-term injector fouling. Early tensioners (pre-2009) should be inspected for wear if rattle is heard at idle; replacement with updated components per SB/08/23 is recommended beyond 100,000 km.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-30 meeting ACEA A3/B4 or GM-LL-A-025 (Vauxhall OH/B18XER/05).
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all production years (2005–2012) under VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890.
Power Ratings: Measured under BS AU 147a. Higher-output variants (140 PS) used modified cam profiles and intake manifolds (PB/07/11).
Vauxhall Technical Information System: Docs TM/B18XER/05, SB/08/23, PB/07/11
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
British Standards Institution: BS AU 147a Engine Power Testing
The Vauxhall B 18 XER was used across Vauxhall's Astra H, Zafira B, and Corsa D platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Zafira and modified intake manifolds in later Astra facelifts—and from 2009 the updated tensioner design improved service life. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Vauxhall TM/B18XER/05). The code 'B18XER' appears as cast alphanumeric characters. Visual identification: black plastic cam cover with 'ECOTEC' logo, intake manifold on the front, exhaust on the rear. Differentiate from the Z18XER (twin-cam VVT) by ECU part number and absence of exhaust cam phaser. Pre-2009 engines use tensioner part #55556789; post-2009 use #55556790 per SB/08/23.
The B 18 XER's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained examples. Vauxhall internal service data from 2010 noted increased warranty claims for chain noise beyond 90,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records associate neglected oil changes with premature cam phaser faults. Extended oil intervals and incorrect viscosity make tensioner degradation critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (2005–2012) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL B-18-XER.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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VAUXHALL Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
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